Havana, a true treasure trove of cultural riches, proves to be helpful for anyone wishing to feel its unique soul. _Every corner of this vibrant city hides a fascinating story_, shaped by centuries of colonization and revolution. Between colorful facades and enchanting rhythms, seven emblematic places stand out, promising an unforgettable immersion. _Step into a dance of melodies and flavors_ that elevate every experience to an extraordinary sensory level. Celebrating the authenticity of Havana inevitably involves these must-see destinations, which are true witnesses to its dynamic and warm essence. Awakening your senses through these encounters becomes an invitation to immerse yourself in the heart of Cuban culture.
Overview
1. Old Havana
UNESCO World Heritage site, these cobbled streets and colorful buildings are the historical heart of Havana.
2. The Malecón
7 km seawall that offers a splendid view and a meeting place for locals and visitors.
3. The Capitol
Iconic monument with neoclassical architecture, home to the Academy of Sciences and kilometer zero.
4. The Museum of the Revolution
Former presidential palace, retraces the history of Cuba with historical objects and important testimonies.
5. The Callejón de Hamel
Vibrant alley dedicated to Afro-Cuban culture, famous for its street art and performances.
6. The Christ Statue
Imposing white marble sculpture, a symbol of protection for Havana since 1957.
7. Christopher Columbus Cemetery
One of the largest cemeteries in Latin America, famous for its refined mausoleums and its history.
Old Havana #
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982, Old Havana represents the historical and cultural heart of the Cuban capital. The cobbled streets, buildings with vibrant hues, and ornate balconies exude a unique atmosphere of another era. Old Havana develops around four emblematic squares, each revealing a facet of its fascinating past.
The Plaza Armas embodies the oldest of the squares, where colonial architecture merges with Art Deco elements. Next, the Plaza de la Catedral impresses with its baroque buildings dating back to the 18th century. The Plaza Vieja, with its charm, is filled with cafés, art galleries, and artisan shops. Finally, the Plaza de San Francisco de Asís, recently restored, offers an enchanting setting marked by statues and fountains.
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The Malecón #
The Malecón stretches for 7 km along the coast, connecting the historic center to the Vedado neighborhood. This vital seawall is not just a promenade but a true place of meetings and festivities. The people of Havana gather here to walk, fish, or enjoy the sea air, especially at dusk.
The promenade begins at Castillo San Salvador de la Punta, offering breathtaking views of Castillo del Morro, two historical fortresses. As you walk, typical houses from the 1930s to 1950s reveal themselves. Parks, sculptures, and monuments surround this lively path by the sea.
The Capitol #
Inaugurated between 1920 and 1929, the Capitol of Havana, called El Capitolio, is stunning for its architecture inspired by the Capitol in Washington. Covered in marble, it maintains a distinct style, harmoniously blending neoclassical and Art Deco elements. Formerly the seat of the Cuban Congress, it now houses the Academy of Sciences.
Inside, visitors admire the hallway of the Lost Steps, where a marble floor meets ornate ceilings. At the center of the hall, a 25-carat diamond marks the zero kilometer of all roads in the country. Another treasure, the Statue of the Republic, represents a female figure in bronze over 15 meters high.
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The Museum of the Revolution #
Located in the former Presidential Palace, the Museum of the Revolution retraces the history of Cuba, from pre-Columbian culture to the current social era. The museum displays historical objects, photographs, and documents reflecting Cuban independence and revolution.
Outside, a SAU-100 tank testifies to the confrontations during the Bay of Pigs invasion in 1961. The famous yacht Granma, which transported Fidel Castro and his compatriots in 1956, completes this rich exhibition of history and emotions.
The Callejón de Hamel #
In the Cayo Hueso neighborhood lies the Callejón de Hamel, a true symbol of Afro-Cuban culture. This narrow artery of 200 meters is bustling with activity, both from tourists and locals. Street art reaches its peak here, with colorful murals, sculptures, and ubiquitous cultural references.
Visitors witness rumba performances and impromptu concerts, while local artists exchange their inspirations and techniques. This vibrant space embodies conviviality, dance, and music, offering an authentic experience of Cuban life.
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The Christ Statue of Havana #
The Christ Statue of Havana immediately evokes the famous sculpture in Rio de Janeiro, although its history greatly differs. In 1957, the promise of the president’s wife, worried for her husband, led to the creation of this monumental work. The sculptor Jilma Madera worked on it after a two-year stay in Italy.
This massive statue, made of white marble and standing 20 meters tall, majestically overlooks Havana Bay, becoming a symbol of peace and protection. Its realization represents not only an artistic challenge but also a symbol laden with emotion for the Cuban people.
Christopher Columbus Cemetery #
Located in the El Vedado neighborhood, the Necrópolis de Cristóbal Colón, founded in 1876, is the largest cemetery in Latin America, housing nearly a million burials. Despite its name, this site does not contain the remains of the famous navigator. Each tomb, often adorned with white marble sculptures, tells a unique story.
The cemetery’s paths, punctuated with neoclassical or rococo-style mausoleums, invite a contemplative and respectful stroll. The grave of La Milagrosa, famous for its tragic story, particularly attracts attention, illustrating the human and historical richness of this sacred place.
